Half cell operations test of the Superconducting Super Collider Laboratory

Preparations and tests are underway at the N-15 site in Waxahachie, Texas, to obtain operational parameters and characteristics for the 100-m-long 50-mm-aperture half cell of the Superconducting Super Collider Laboratory (SSCL) collider. The first power phase of this test refers to the accelerator system string test. The experimental procedure is described. These measurements are being added to the previous information obtained during the thousands of hours of operating the 40-mm-aperture half cell minus the quadrupole string. These data are being compared to each other and to various computer models to obtain optimum operating scenarios for the final collider components and their use. The last run on the previous string emphasized the mid-cell spool piece recooler components; i.e., bypass leads, recooler, cool down valve, quench valve, etc., and their operation. Problems previously reported and their proposed solutions or proven fixes are discussed. Future tests with the present half cell and possible plans for its expansion to a full cell plus are presented. Heat loads from previous runs are compared with their design values.<>